FAK Phosphorylation

Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) is a widely expressed non-receptor protein tyrosine kinase that acts as a central integrator of signals from the extracellular matrix (ECM) and various growth factors, cytokines, and mechanical stimuli. FAK is primarily localized to focal adhesions, dynamic protein complexes that serve as mechanical links between the cell's cytoskeleton and the ECM via integrin receptors. Its activation and subsequent tyrosine phosphorylation are critical for regulating fundamental cellular processes such as cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, survival, and differentiation.